At Expert Care Center, patients can receive a wide range of knee pain treatments, from medications to advanced therapies like peripheral nerve stimulation. Knees bear the weight of our daily activities, playing an essential role in our movement. Yet, they are susceptible to trauma and other negative factors that cause pain.
When searching for relief, the expertise of a skilled professional like Dr. Gazelle Aram becomes invaluable. She is a double board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to each procedure. Dr. Aram offers comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of individuals experiencing knee pain.
Ligament and tendon damage can often cause knee pain. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) are two major structures in that area that may lead to severe discomfort when torn or damaged. Tendons around the knee joint, such as the patellar tendon, can also become inflamed or degenerate over time. Treatment for damaged ligaments and tendons depends on the severity but may include rest, physical therapy, braces, or even surgery for complete tears.
Bursitis is the inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs called bursae that surround the knee joint. When these sacs become irritated or inflamed, they cause pain and swelling around the knee. Bursitis can be caused by injury, overuse, arthritis, infection, or gout.
Braces can be an effective treatment for knee pain that is associated with injuries or arthritis. They work by stabilizing the joint, reducing stress and strain. Braces come in many types, such as functional knee braces, which increase the flexibility of movement, and unloader braces, which help shift weight off the affected area of the knee. These devices can provide substantial pain relief when used appropriately under medical guidance. Our doctor provides custom-fitted braces to address all knee conditions in the most effective way.
Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation is a procedure in which heat is applied to genicular nerves in the knee to disrupt pain signals. A probe is inserted and moved to the targeted nerve under the guidance of ultrasound or X-rays. Then, radiofrequency energy is delivered to heat the nerve. This non-surgical procedure aims to provide long-term pain relief for those suffering from chronic knee discomfort due to osteoarthritis or other conditions.
Viscosupplementation involves injecting gel-like fluid into the knee joint to treat osteoarthritis. This liquid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber to provide pain relief. Research shows that viscosupplementation is an effective treatment option for reducing knee aches for up to 6 months. Repeated injections may be needed to sustain the relief over time.
Steroid injections can be used to treat knee pain caused by inflammation. They work by reducing swelling and the underlying processes in the joint. For example, cortisone shots can provide short-term pain relief lasting several weeks or months. However, the effects are temporary, and injections may need to be repeated. This therapy does not address the fundamental cause of pain.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections are an emerging treatment for knee osteoarthritis and pain. The patient’s own blood is drawn and processed to concentrate the platelets, which contain growth factors. The PRP is then injected into the knee joint to repair damaged cartilage, tendons, or ligaments. Our practice shows that PRP injections can reduce knee aches and improve function.
Pain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may also be effective. These pharmaceuticals reduce inflammation and pain. However, due to potential side effects, such medication should be used carefully under our supervision. A comprehensive pain management plan may also include physical therapy, weight loss, knee braces, or surgery.
With treatments like steroid or viscosupplementation injections directly into the knee joint, patients may see more rapid short-term improvement in pain and function. However, they may not last for a long time, and patients still require physical therapy and other supportive activities.
Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. When conservative approaches, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation, fail to provide relief, more advanced options may be considered. Potential candidates for knee pain treatment include:
Despite the significant discomfort caused by knee pain, it is good to know that there are effective treatments that can address this condition. At Expert Care Center, we offer the most effective therapies that can give our patients the following benefits:
What Makes Our Knee Pain Doctor Different From Others?